Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice

Gemstones can be carved, like other materials, into almost any form, limited only by the talents of the sculptor. In this striking 18k gold and gemstone bracelet by Bulgari, we see deeply colored sapphire, amethyst, peridot and tourmaline formed into what is known as the Sugarloaf cut. The Sugarloaf gained its name through literal reference to very early sugar production techniques employed before the advent of sugar cubes in the late 19th century. A tall cone with a rounded top was the end product of a process that saw raw sugar turned into refined sugar and is a form that was first recorded as far back as the 12th century. Akin to the more common Cabochon cut, the Sugarloaf differs only in the gentle transition from a round to a softened pyramidal form, and allows for an uncomplicated display of luminous color. Bulgari designs have always had a striking and confident aesthetic combining unexpected elements, such as Sugarloaf cut gemstones, that draw continual attention to the design house’s bold and playful use of color. Print this post